Blue Skies

• Theatre

by T. C. Boyle / translated by Dirk van Gunsteren / in a version by Christina Bellingen and Jan Bosse / directed by Jan Bosse / world premiere

“No writer is as skilled at portraying mankind’s talent for self-sabotaging behavior.” Financial Times

This could be our future: Mama Ottilie enthusiastically preparing fried crickets and mealworm-burgers in an attempt to save the world, while her entomologist son is bitten by a tick that almost kills him and her daughter battles loneliness with a giant Burmese Python in the hope of finally kick-starting a career as an influencer. In spite of the dire climate ecological situation, her husband continues to jet around the country as Bacardi Ambassador, keeping parties well stocked with liquids for drinking away disaster. At some point, of course, the python escapes from its terrarium…

And outside? Too hot and too wet – the world is out of whack. T.C. Boyle’s mordantly funny and shrewd social commentary is chock-full of unexpected plot twists. The only possible conclusion: It will never get that bad! Or will it? Let’s laugh away catastrophe, drink some Californian wine even if it tastes like ashes, and get going … so the “Burmie” won’t … whatever…

T.C. Boyle is the punk among the literary stars in the US. Born 1948 to two Irish immigrants, both alcoholics, Boyle battled with drugs and neurotic excesses before finding a home in literature. Sporting an excellent intuition for the issues of our times – drugs, immigration, environmental pollution – he has garnered countless awards for his novels (“Water Music”, “Outside Looking In”, “The Tortilla Curtain”)

Jan Bosse’s work as a director (most recent: “Network” and “King Lear”) feature strong set designs, expressive costume work, humanity, wit and an anarchic playfulness.

world premiere 15th September 2024, Thalia Theater